SouthernTurk
Unusual recipes for curious cooks.
https://www.southernturk.versust.com/recipe/ricotta-stuffed-squash-blossoms-with-preserved-lemon-dust
Printed August 31, 2026
Printed August 31, 2026
Air Fryer Alchemist
Ricotta-Stuffed Squash Blossoms with Preserved Lemon Dust
Delicate flowers emerge from the air fryer with impossibly crispy petals and a creamy, herb-flecked core. The preserved lemon dust adds a citrus punch that cuts through the richness.
Ingredients
- 16 fresh squash blossoms
- 250g fresh ricotta
- 50g finely grated pecorino
- 2 tbsp finely chopped basil
- 1 tbsp finely chopped mint
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- 100g chickpea flour
- 150ml cold sparkling water
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 2 preserved lemon quarters
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- Cooking spray
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Preparation
Squash blossoms are ephemeral treasures, and the air fryer treats them with the gentleness they deserve while still creating that essential crunch. This recipe proves that delicate ingredients don't need to be deep-fried to achieve greatness—hot air, properly wielded, is enough.
Preparation
- Gently open each squash blossom and remove the stamen. Rinse carefully and pat dry with paper towels.
- Mix ricotta, pecorino, basil, mint, lemon zest, nutmeg, salt, and white pepper in a bowl until combined.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each blossom with about 1 tablespoon of the ricotta mixture. Twist the petals gently to seal.
- Whisk chickpea flour, sparkling water, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until you have a light batter (slightly thinner than pancake batter).
- Prepare the preserved lemon dust: pat the preserved lemon pieces dry, remove and discard any pulp, then finely mince the rind. Toast coriander seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, then grind. Mix ground coriander with minced preserved lemon.
- Preheat air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Spray the basket generously.
- Dip each stuffed blossom in the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then place in the air fryer basket without touching.
- Spray the tops with cooking spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately, dusted with the preserved lemon mixture.
